A recent study by the American Institute for Research found that 82 percent of new teachers who were trained in vigorous, long-term student teaching programs - such as the program by Chicago-based nonprofit Urban Teacher Residency United - were still in the teaching profession after 5 years on the job.

With tight budgets and changing requirements, teachers are always excited to hear about ways to save money on professional development and certifications. Recently, the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) announced a $600 decrease in the price of certification. The change is designed to save teachers money and make certification easier to obtain.

Last week, AAE had the pleasure of attending an event headlined by Secretary of Education Arne Duncan and hosted by Education Sector, which unveiled the Department of Education's proposals to reform teacher preparation programs and better prepare new teachers for the classroom. The event featured both a speech by Secretary Duncan and panel of experts discussing the state of teacher prep and the need for reform. According to the department, the proposals are to be a part of the overall effort by the administration to support educators and make government programs work better for teachers and students.
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According to a new survey issued by the National Center for Education Information, programs that offer non-traditional paths toward a career in teaching, otherwise known as "alternative certification," are on the rise nationwide. In a climate where education advocates are calling for a new and highly effective teacher workforce, this survey is positive news for proponents of the growing and diverse alternative certification movement.
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